This climate is one in which: People feel they are respected, accepted, and valued by the teachers and by other learners Openness of self, rather than concealment of self is encouraged Difference is good and desirable People are allowed to make mistakes, to not know, to "mess up" Teachers and learners are supportive instead of judgmental: collaborative rather than competitive People's experience, attitudes, and knowledge are recognized and built on Confrontation is permitted 2.